About Amundsen Science
Amundsen Science is responsible of the scientific mandate of the Canadian research icebreaker CCGS Amundsen. Amundsen Science maintains and operates the ship’s central pool of scientific equipment, coordinates the deployment of the icebreaker for science, provides technical support at sea for user programs, and manages data from the central science systems. The Amundsen’s pool of specialized equipment comprises more than 85 scientific systems, including a light work-class Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) named “ASTRID” to study deep-sea environments. Procured in 2020 from Forum Energy Technologies, the ROV has been upgraded over the years to serve multiple scientific objectives, including the sampling of soft organisms, high-resolution video surveys, and water/sediment sampling.
Job Opportunity
Amundsen Science is currently seeking junior level technician to assist in the planning, maintenance, field deployment/recovery of the Amundsen’s ASTRID ROV. This position will offer the chance to work aboard a Canadian Coast Guard icebreaker and other vessels with a highly experienced team of Arctic technicians, professionals and researchers.
Job Summary
The technician will work under the supervision of the executive director and in close collaboration with other technicians of the team and external collaborators. The responsibilities are as follows:
- Working in a team setting to install, repair and maintain the Amundsen Science’s ASTRID ROV system prior, during and after the annual CCGS Amundsen expedition, including during the sea trials and as part of the main Arctic expedition.
- Working in a team to ensure safe and efficient operations of the ROV system with an offshore team comprised of professionals to deliver the required ROV tests at sea for system integration.
- Troubleshoot and repair ROV electrical, hydraulic, and IT systems onshore and offshore.
- Update the ROV part inventory (keeping track of parts, maintenance and repair requirements).
- Writing of operational reports for deployments detailing sampling procedures, equipment problems encountered and troubleshooting techniques applied.
- Working in a team to make the ASTRID ROV system transportable and adapt the ROV systems (including winch and container) to other research vessels such as the RV Coriolis II as part of an ongoing collaboration project.
- Monitor technological developments to improve the capability of the ROV system.
- Respond to and support scientific researchers and students from the Amundsen’s ROV/benthic community in achieving their scientific objectives.
- On an opportunity and availability basis, work as part of the Amundsen Science team to maintain, repair and operate other systems of the CCGS Amundsen at sea, such as the CTD-rosette, multibeam system, and Hugin 1000 AUV system.
Qualifications and or assets
- A minimum of a technical diploma in electronic engineering, mechanical engineering, robotic engineering, naval architecture (marine mechanic) or any related discipline.
- A speciality in electronics, IT/network, or hydraulics.
- Sea-going experience in industry or research is required, but ROV experience is not required.
- General computer and networking/IT skills.
- Knowledge of the Microsoft Office suite.
- Willingness to work 4 to 8 weeks per year at sea in the Canadian Arctic Ocean
- Excellent ability to work independently and in a dynamic team with multiple partners.
- Ease of adaptation and ability to solve problematic situations creatively.
- Be safety aware, accountable and maintain behaviour in compliance with HSE
- Good working ability in English (oral & written).
- Willingness to learn basic French and to work in a francophone environment.
- Be willing to live and work in Quebec.
Workplace
Amundsen Science is based out of Université Laval and affiliated warehouses in Quebec City, Canada. The position involves work at-sea and alongside on the research icebreaker CCGS Amundsen (4 to 8 weeks per year in general), while the maintenance and repair of the ROV is done in Quebec City. Despite working in a French-speaking environment, many tasks related to this job will be carried out in English. Bilingualism is a strong asset for the position.
Working Conditions
Salary to be determined based on experience and skills, according to the salary structure of Amundsen Science. Health benefit package available and collective pension plan. Professional training available if required. Starting date: fall 2025. Full time. Annual or multi-year contract, renewable.
Note: Applications will continue to be accepted for the position until a suitable candidate is selected and accepts an offer of employment.
Submit your cover letter and resume to:
Amundsen Science – ROVT
Université Laval
In accordance with stipulated requirements regarding immigration in Canada, priority will be given to Canadian citizens as well as permanent residents of Canada.
